Rural Route April - May 2019

Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION®'S

april | may 2019 • vol. 25 no. 2 | wfbf.com

Young Farmer Shows

'How Farms Work' Page 14

Inside: H ighlights from Ag Day at the Capitol, Ag LEAD Summit and more.

contents vol. 25 no. 2

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BUDGET

Read Farm Bureau's priorities for the state budget.

AG DAY AT THE CAPITOL

See highlights from the March 20 event in Madison.

HOW FARMS WORK

A young farmer uses YouTube to educate about farming.

NATIONAL AG DAY

A recap of how Farm Bureau members celebrated the day.

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

WFBF reflects on legislative accomplishments in 100-year history.

OPINION

Opinion pieces from Duvall, Chalmers, Holte, Eckelberg and Camp.

FFA FARM FORUM

More than 225 high school students attended the annual event.

FUSION

Highlights from the AFBF Conference held in Milwaukee.

AG LEAD SUMMIT

See highlights from this first-ever biennial event.

SUMMER TRAINING

Learn about Ag in the Classroom opportunities for this summer.

RURAL MUTUAL

Be weather ready with these tips.

COVER PHOTO BY SARAH HETKE

ONLINE LIBRARY

Read our previous issues at wfbf.com/read.

wfbf.com

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Rural Route WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION'S

EDITOR'S NOTE

D

are I say spring has sprung? After a long winter there is nothing more refreshing than hearing the birds chirping and seeing the sprouts of green grass.

Soon it will be time to plant flowers around the yard, which is something I enjoy doing ever year. I’m no master gardener but I do enjoy getting some dirt under my fingernails and watching the flowers take root and blossom.

Roots are not just important for plants.

In March, I listened to Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary-Designee Brad Pfaff as he spoke to county Farm Bureau presidents. He spoke about his roots in La Crosse County where he grew up on a dairy farm. His reflection made me do a bit of reflection of my own.

While growing up on the farm, springtime meant kittens, riding bikes up the barn hill and mud puddles. There was such joy in feeling the spring breeze rather

than winter’s bite. Springtime meant our fair piglets arrived and less layers needed to be worn for chores.

With every trip to get the cows from pasture, I watched tulips poke up through the soil and patches of green grass slowly combine to complete the lawn. No more were the plants and trees barren but slowly budding and re-rooting for the summer.

Farm Bureau prides itself on being a grassroots organization. Just like the season of spring, each year we build on the previous year, but also take on the new year with a fresh start. Policy, membership and communication all need to be looked on with fresh eyes to keep the organization viable for years ahead.

In the feature story, you’ll read about a member who is taking a fresh approach in how he talks about farming. His YouTube channel has more than 210,000 subscribers and continues to grow. Read more about Ryan Kuster on pages 14 and 15.

February and March were fully-loaded with fantastic conferences and meetings. The events are highlighted throughout this issue.

As you anticipate spring planting and look ahead to the growing season, don’t forget to think about your involvement in Farm Bureau. For farmers, it’s important to cultivate the soil. It’s just as vital to re-root yourself into agricultural organizations that work on your behalf.

Enjoy this issue of Rural Route and have a safe, and successful planting season.

Amy Eckelberg Rural Route Editor Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation

Editor Amy Eckelberg - 608.828.5706 Designer Lynn Siekmann - 608.828.5707 Contributors Sarah Hetke - 608.828.5711 Marian Viney - 608.828.5721 Address of Publication Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 1241 John Q. Hammons Dr. Madison, WI 53705-0550 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation PO Box 5550 Madison, WI 53705-0550 Contact Information 608.836.5575 800.261.FARM (3276) wfbf.com info.demingway@wfbf.com WFBF Board of Directors Jim Holte, Elk Mound, (President) Kevin Krentz, Berlin, (Vice President) Dave Daniels, Union Grove Arch Morton Jr., Janesville Robert Nigh, Viroqua Joe Bragger, Independence Rosie Lisowe, Chilton Don Radtke, Merrill Andrea Brossard, Burnett (Promotion and Education Committee Chair) Julie Wadzinski, Rice Lake (YFA Committee Chair) Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation's Rural Route (ISSN 1082-1368) (USPS 39940), the official publication of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, is published six times per year in February|March, April|May, June|July, August|September, October|November and December|January. Subscription of $5 is included in Farm Bureau dues. Periodical postage is paid at Madison, Wisconsin. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without written consent.

For advertising rates and information: Wisconsin accounts contact Slack Attack at 608.222.7630 or barbara@slackattack.com.

National accounts contact Casey McNeal at 800.798.2691 ext. 334 or casey@iafalls.com.

For general inquiries, contact Amy Eckelberg at 608.828.5706 or aeckelberg@wfbf.com.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

NEWS

Farmers and Water Technology Leaders Support Pollution Credit Trading Legislation W

isconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association and The Water Council thank Senator Rob Cowles and Representative Joel Kitchens for authoring the 'Pollution Prevention Partnership – Wisconsin's Trading Marketplace' legislation (SB91 and AB113).

Wisconsin is a national leader in crop production and food processing. Wisconsin farmers are also committed to implementing on-farm practices that will further improve the health of the state's water bodies. The "Pollution Prevention Partnership – Wisconsin's Trading Marketplace" legislation will further encourage farmer participation and implementation of additional practices and technologies designed to reduce nonpoint source pollution by allowing for the private sector to develop an economically sustainable system for farmers, industry and municipalities to engage in cooperative efforts to reduce water pollution in Wisconsin.

"Our members strive to be good stewards of the land and resources around them," said Wisconsin Corn Growers Association President Doug Rebout. "This provision will recognize their efforts as they continue to provide a quality product."

WFBF President Jim Holte said, "This legislation will support increased generation and trading of water pollution credits between farmers and their municipal or industrial neighbors.

Thank you Senator Cowles and Representative Kitchens. We share your commitment to continually improving Wisconsin water quality."

As Weather Warms, Watch Manure Runoff Risk W

armer temperatures in the weather forecast are certainly welcomed by many, but they also can pose challenges for farmers. Farmers are urged to plan ahead and reduce the risk of manure runoff incidents.

"Manure storage capacity on farms can be really tight this time of year," said WFBF's Executive Director of Governmental Relations Karen Gefvert. "Making good manure management and spreading decisions is essential to reducing the risk of manure runoff events and protecting water quality."

The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection has an online resource where farmers can check the Runoff Risk Advisory Forecast. According to DATCP, this resource provides maps showing short-term runoff risk for daily application planning, taking into account soil saturation and temperature, weather forecast, snow and crop cover and slope. It is updated three times daily by the National Weather Service.

DATCP advises livestock producers to consider the following to reduce their risk of manure runoff.

If hauling manure is necessary during a time of high runoff risk, contact your crop consultant and county conservationist for APRIL | MAY 2019

help identifying fields with a lower risk.

During the period of active snow melt or when rain is predicted on frozen soils, producers who do not have appropriate areas to spread manure, should contact their crop consultant, county land conservation office or the DNR for help identifying alternatives to spreading such as stacking manure in a low risk area.

Farmers with adequate liquid manure storage capacity should hold off on spreading until after this high-risk period. Those who must spread should identify fields that are away from streams or lakes and have minimal risk of manure running to surface or groundwater. They should also reduce the normal amount applied per acre.

It is essential for farmers to have an emergency plan, including who to call and what steps to take, if a spill or runoff occurs. It also is important to consider the necessary steps to cleaning up a spill and how to prevent these incidents from happening. More information on planning for manure spills is available on the DNR website. wfbf.com

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A FARM BUREAU LOOK AT THE BUDGET PROPOSAL

On February 28, Governor Tony Evers delivered his budget proposal. Within the proposal there are a variety of ag-related items mentioned. Wisconsin Farm Bureau's governmental relations team is working with legislators on behalf of the interests of farmers and rural landowners. This is a list of the priority items.

Agriculture Wisconsin Initiative for Dairy Exports – Provides $200,000 during the biennium for the Wisconsin Initiative for Dairy Exports program to help build Wisconsin's dairy brand in international markets. The program promotes dairy exports by running reverse trade missions, bringing in importers from foreign countries and helping them get to know our world-class dairy products.

Hemp – Provides 3.0 full-time employees and funding to assist in the licensing, registration and testing for hemp. Funding will assist with conversion of the Industrial Hemp Pilot Program into a state management plan for hemp in Wisconsin as allowed under the 2018 Farm Bill. The farm bill indicates states may submit a plan to USDA for 'primary regulatory control.'

County Land and Water Conservation Staff – Provides $1.4 million each year of the biennium for additional grant funding to counties for county conservation staff to support land and water conservation activities. Current base funding for county conservation staff is $9 million. This additional funding provides 100 percent of one county conservation position and 70 percent of a second county conservation position in all counties.

Nonpoint Cost-sharing and Producer-led Grants – Provides $1.5 million in segregated revenue funding each year of the biennium for nutrient management cost-sharing. Also maintains the amount the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection may

allocate for producer-led watershed grants at $750,000 in each year of the biennium. The Producer-Led Watershed Program has grown in acceptance as a successful way for farmers, county conservationist and environmental groups to do research and implement best management practices on a local level.

Funding for Planning – Provides $10 million in segregated-revenuesupported bonding for grants to counties for implementation of land and water resource management plans, including cost-share grants to landowners.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS THESE POSITIONS.

Natural Resources Nonpoint Funding – Provides $6.5 million in environmental fund supported bonding authority for nonpoint source pollution abatement targeted runoff management infrastructure projects. It also provides $400,000 in segregated revenue funds each year of the biennium for nonpoint source pollution abatement targeted runoff management grants.

Most segregated revenue funds are to be used to implement performance standard changes in the northeastern karst area.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this concept but requests $1 million segregated revenue funds for targeted runoff management grants to fully implement targeted performance standard changes.

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Nonpoint Abatement and Outreach – Provides $730,000 in each year of the biennium for contractual services related to nonpoint source pollution abatement. $300,000 is dedicated to education and outreach to farmers, $180,000 for software, $75,000 for website maintenance and $20,000 for educational and technical assistance for property owners.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this position.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Transportation Gas Tax Increase – Provides an increase in motor fuel tax by 8 cents and an increase in original and transfer title fees by $10.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this position.

Local Road Funding – Provides a 10 percent increase in mileage aid payment to assist local governments in maintaining Wisconsin roads. Provides some increase for entitlement and discretionary grants in the Local Roads Improvement Program (2 percent in each year). These provisions

help increase general transportation aids and local road improvement program funding but not to a level that will allow towns and counties to make significant repairs or replacement of local roads and bridges.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this position but knows additional funding for local road aids is essential. Any increase in revenue should be directed toward local road aid funding levels as an addition, not an offset.

Driver Licensing – Extends eligibility to receive driver's licenses and identification cards to undocumented individuals if they comply with the driver knowledge and skills requirement.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this position with the contingency that they meet the same requirements as other Wisconsin licensed drivers, including insurance requirements.

Education and Broadband Funding for Applied Ag Research at UW Extension – The governor's budget proposal includes funding and position authority to increase UW-Extension county-based agricultural agent positions by 20 fulltime employees. Wisconsin agriculture supports funding positions and research projects led by state integrated research specialists who hold joint appointments between UW-Agriculture Colleges and UWExtension. These specialists perform and teach the focused research that is essential to Wisconsin farmers and support Wisconsin's $89 billion agricultural economy.

FARM BUREAU WILL ask legislators to AMEND the governor's proposal and support $15 million during the biennium to fund research and positions for our state integrated research specialists who hold a joint appointment between a UW-Agriculture College and UW Extension.

UW School of Veterinary Medicine – The expansion project has been included in the governor's capital budget proposal. The UW School of Veterinary Medicine was built in 1983 to see 12,000 patients per year. They currently see nearly 27,000 annually, forcing patients to wait weeks or months for an appointment. The school has trained more than 50 percent of the veterinarians practicing in the state and consistently ranks among the top five schools of veterinary medicine in the nation.

The expansion project consists of a combination of private fundraising and state dollars. The total project is estimated to cost approximately $126.7 million: $38 million from private donors and a request of $88.7 million from the state.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this position.

Legislative Priority Items Not in the Budget Wildlife Abatement Claims – Repeal $10,000 limit on wildlife abatement damage claims program. 2017 claims were paid out at a rate of less than 70 percent. Current assessments are not being fully completed but instead assessors are stopping damage assessments at the $10,000 claim cap. In multiple instances each year, damage exceeds the cap by three-to-four times the amount. In order to better capture the damage and distribute the program dollars proportionately, the damage cap of $10,000 should be removed.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this position.

Monitoring Bear Traps – Currently if farmers have a bear trap on their property, they are required to check each trap in person each morning. For farmers that have multiple traps in multiple locations spread out over wide distances, this requires a significant time and travel investment daily. Funding should be available for electronic monitoring on all bear traps.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this position.

Animal Health Records – Testing records from the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab should be protected from open records requests to protect farmers' business and proprietary information. DATCP APRIL | MAY 2019

and USDA will continue to maintain access to all lab reports for purposes of mandatory animal disease reporting and public welfare and safety purposes.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS this position.

UW Dairy Innovation Hub Proposal – Wisconsin's dairy industry needs research to drive future success if it wants to continue to drive the state's economy.

The investment will have far reaching impacts throughout the state. The four critical research areas for the UW Dairy Innovation Hub assume a $7.6 million per year cost, including positions within areas such as dairy science, biological systems engineering, food science, soil science, agronomy, agricultural and applied economics and nutritional sciences.

FARM BUREAU SUPPORTS the UW Dairy Innovation Hub and the $7.6 million funding request. wfbf.com

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NEWS

Rural Mutual Recognizes Top Agents O n February 22, Rural Mutual Insurance Company recognized the 2018 top-producing agents at their annual Honors and Awards banquet held at the Oshkosh Convention Center in Oshkosh.

Mike Immel (Fond du Lac, Big Lakes District) was named Rural Mutual's Agent of the Year. Mike also was recognized as the Company Top Performer in Commercial Lines, Life Lines and the Farm and Personal Lines Leader for the Big Lakes District.

Rookie of the Year honor went to Matt Rhodes (Black River

Falls, Lake and Woods District).

The District of the Year honors went to the Big Lakes District, managed by Chuck McDaniel.

Stacey Miller and Carl Thomfohrda (Chippewa Falls and Balsam Lake, Northwest District) were the company Top Performers in Farm Lines.

Jacob Shropshire (Columbus, Capitol District) was the Company Top Performer in Personal Lines.

Congratulations to all Rural Mutual Insurance agents on an outstanding year.

Mike Immel

Stacey Miller

Matt Rhodes

Chuck McDaniel

Carl Thomfohrda

Jacob Shropshire

Rural Landowners Should Check 2019 Tax Assessments R ural landowners should check their property tax assessments this spring.

"Land on Wisconsin farms generally falls into one of five classifications," explained Wisconsin Farm Bureau's Executive Director of Governmental Relations Karen Gefvert.

Agricultural Land is subject to the use value assessment law, and is further classified as Grades 1, 2 or 3, or pastureland.

Agricultural Forest is assessed at 50 percent of market value, this is a woodlot located on a parcel also containing agricultural land, or wooded land contiguous to a parcel entirely classified as agricultural land under the same ownership.

Productive Forest Land is a wooded area that does not meet qualifications as agricultural forest and is assessed at market value.

Undeveloped Land is a classification that encompasses wetlands, swamps and wasteland, all of which are assessed at 50 percent of market value.

Other encompasses the farmstead and farm buildings assessed at market value.

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"Farmers need to be aware of how the various types of land they own are classified in order to determine how assessments apply," Gefvert said.

"Tax assessment statements for municipalities are typically issued in April and May to notify landowners of changes in property assessments," Gefvert said. "If farmers have questions about their assessments, they should first talk with their assessor.

They should also be aware of the appeals process available through the local Board of Review."

The Department of Revenue's website (revenue.wi.gov) offers an Agricultural Assessment Guide, Use Value Guidelines for each municipality and a Property Assessment Appeal guide.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Leopold Conservation AwardÂŽ Program Seeks Nominees D o you know a Wisconsin farmer who goes above and beyond in the care and management of natural resources? Nominate them for the 2019 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award.

Sand County Foundation, the nation's leading voice for the conservation of private land, presents the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 13 states for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation. In Wisconsin, the $10,000 award is presented annually by Sand County Foundation, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat management on private, working land. In his influential 1949 book, "A Sand County Almanac," Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Nominations may be submitted on behalf of a landowner, or landowners may nominate themselves. For an application, visit sandcountyfoundation.org/uploads/Wisconsin2019-CFN.pdf.

"Leopold Conservation Award recipients are at the forefront of a movement by America's farmers and ranchers to simultaneously achieve economic and environmental success," said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation president and chief executive officer.

"This award showcases outstanding farmers who are going above and beyond to make sure they are protecting land and water resources for the next generation," said Jim Holte, WFBF president. "I know many of our state's farmers have already implemented sustainable farming practices and could easily fit the criteria. I encourage all who are eligible to apply."

The Leopold Conservation Award Program in Wisconsin is made possible thanks to the generous support of Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association, American Transmission Company, Compeer Financial, We Energies Foundation, USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board, Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association and McDonald's.

The Leopold Conservation Award will be presented at the APRIL | MAY 2019

WFBF's Annual Meeting in December.

The first Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award recipient was selected in 2006. David Geiser of New Holstein received the award in 2018.

Applications must be postmarked by August 5. Mail applications to: Leopold Conservation Award c/o Sand County Foundation 131 W. Wilson Street, Suite 610; Madison, WI 53703

wfbf.com

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Farmers Head to Madison

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Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary-Designee Brad Pfaff addressed Ag Day at the Capitol attendees.

Jordan Lamb gave an update on water quality.

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n March 20, more than 300 farmers and agriculturists met in Madison for Ag Day at the Capitol.

The program kicked off with a transportation panel. The panel members discussed transportation items in the governor's budget proposal and what funding possibilities would be viable moving forward.

"Maintaining and funding rural roads is desperately needed in Wisconsin," WFBF President Jim Holte said. "We cannot lose sight of the importance of rural infrastructure for our farmers and rural residents."

The featured guest speaker was Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary-Designee Brad Pfaff who talked with attendees about dairy, hemp and water. He emphasized his rural roots and upbringing on a farm in rural La Crosse County and shared his plans to have DATCP help farmers in whatever way it can.

After briefings, farmers and agriculturists walked across the street to the Capitol.

After legislative issue briefings by speakers, attendees walked to the Capitol to meet with their legislators.

"This year's meetings had a strong focus on the governor's budget proposal and ensuring agriculture programs are well-funded," added Holte. "Farm Bureau members also stressed the importance of farmers having a seat at the table for water-related discussions."

Rural Mutual Insurance Company and GROWMARK, Inc., were major sponsors of the event. Co-sponsors of the event, with Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, included the Dairy Business Association, Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Hemp Alliance, Wisconsin Horse Council, Wisconsin Pork Association, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association, Wisconsin Soybean Association and Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association.

Larry Konopacki from the Wisconsin Hemp Alliance gave an update on hemp.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Above: Ag Day at the Capitol began with a panel discussion on transportation. (From left): WFBF President Jim Holte, Wisconsin Counties Association Executive Director Mark O’Connell, moderator Bill McCoshen, Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary-Designee Craig Thompson and

APRIL | MAY 2019

Forward Janesville’s Vice President of Government Relations and Education Dan Cummingham.

Below: On March 20, farmers and agriculturists met with their legislators to discuss topics important to rural communities.

wfbf.com

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NEWS

Towns Hired as Senior Director of Governmental Relations D ebi Towns has been hired by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation as its senior director of governmental relations.

As a registered lobbyist for WFBF, Towns will assist Farm Bureau members in working with local, state and federal lawmakers to advance the policy directives for Wisconsin's largest general farm organization.

"I'm excited to join the WFBF team," Towns said.

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"Wisconsin agriculture has been a big part of my life and I am eager to utilize my experience working with lawmakers to heighten awareness of our members' needs."

Towns comes to Farm Bureau from the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority where she served as the legislative relationships and government liaison. She previously served two terms in the State Assembly where she represented Wisconsin's 43rd District.

"Debi will be a great advocate for Wisconsin's farmers," said WFBF's Executive Director of Governmental Relations Karen Gefvert. "She has a background in agriculture and understands the legislative process. Her relationships in both areas will help move Wisconsin agriculture forward."

Towns and her husband, Steve, are Rock County Farm Bureau members and co-own a dairy farm outside of Janesville.

She began her duties with the Farm Bureau on February 25.

Towns succeeds Rob Richard as the senior director of governmental relations.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

APRIL | MAY 2019

wfbf.com

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Young Farmer Uses YouTube to Show

'How Farms Work'

By Sarah Hetke

S

ome of the best ideas come at the most unexpected times, at least that is what happened to Grant County Farm Bureau member Ryan Kuster. As a UW-Platteville student Kuster found himself in the computer lab one day in 2012 contemplating how he could return home to the farm and ensure he and his parents could make a livable wage.

Kuster discovered an interest in photography while in high school after his brother brought home the school's yearbook camera. He signed up for photography classes in school and soon found himself starting a small photography business.

Throughout college, Kuster made extra money through the business.

In addition to photography, Kuster had taken some short video clips around the family farm and uploaded them to YouTube. While sitting in that UW-Platteville computer lab, he noticed those short video clips had more than 14,000 views since being shared. These were short, simple videos that showed basics tasks and life on his farm.

"I thought if I had uploaded more footage from the farm, those other videos could have gotten 14,000 views," Ryan said.

"I started uploading new content monthly and rebranded my YouTube account to 'How Farms Work.'"

To farmers and agriculturists, the daily routine of farm life can seem monotonous; however, this routine is extremely interesting to those not living or working on a farm.

"Many viewers aren't able to farm themselves and they tell me they live vicariously through my videos," Kuster said. "I've been at meet-and-greet events and had viewers tell me they had no idea what life was like on a farm before they started watching my channel."

Kuster also has seen a lot of interest from farmers who want to learn a new way to go about a task.

"When I started, I thought this was a good way to connect with consumers," Kuster shared. "I never anticipated that I would connect with so many farmers who want to learn more

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or get another perspective."

Serving as a farming resource comes naturally to Kuster as agriculture has a long history in the family. Kuster's grandparents purchased the first of their farms in the 1950s where they milked cows until the couple died in 2014, at which point the family transitioned to beef cattle and crops. Today, the Kuster family grows 1,000 acres of crops and pasture for their 100 head of beef cattle.

"I can share a farmer's perspective on a lot of different angles since I grew up milking cows but am now actively involved in the beef and crop business," Kuster added.

Kuster wants to continue working with his family to expand the farm.

His success on social media has helped him find his place on the farm and he hopes to continue to grow brand recognition and become an online resource for information on farming.

"In a way, my YouTube channel is already an online resource for farming information, but I want to expand this resource and further organize the videos, so everything is easy to find," Kuster said.

The 'How Farms Work' channel has gained national and international attention - it has more than 210,000 subscribers with more than 15 million views each year. The channel's most popular video is titled, "Daddy

Won't Sell The Farm," which has more than 1.3 million views.

'How Farms Work' also can be found on other social media channels including Facebook and Instagram, with more than 41,000 and nearly 67,000 followers, respectively. The social connection does not stop there, in true transparency, Kuster also has brought his brand to Snapchat where he shows pictures and videos of daily farm tasks, videos he is working on and links to the final projects.

"I didn't have any real interest in video until I got used to taking more footage," Kuster admitted. "In the past, I preferred going on photoshoots, but now I would say I prefer making videos."

Videography is a learning process. Kuster credits watching movies as the way he learns the most.

"Sometimes I tend to pay more attention to how shots are set up and composed than the movies themselves," Kuster said with a chuckle. "I keep most of my shots under 30 seconds because our eyes and brains get bored if individual shots or entire videos are too long."

In the beginning, Kuster says he used his photography camera to shoot video footage because that is what he had access to on a limited budget.

As he became more involved in his YouTube channel and started making extra money, he wanted to reinvest it back in his goal of growing his online resources.

Today, Kuster uses professional recording equipment including GoPros and a high-end cinema camera, like what is used in Hollywood.

"I prefer the GoPro camera since it is portable, and I can take some unique shots to showcase unique angles of agricultural life," Kuster said.

Kuster shared that content is king.

"If you don't have content that people enjoy, the equipment you use won't make a difference," Kuster advised.

With an entrepreneurial spirit, Kuster said that if one idea doesn't take off, try another. He always tries new ideas and approaches to making his content more interesting.

Some of Kuster's advice for finding content is to talk to family and friends and find out what they want to learn about agriculture. If one person has a question, there is a high likelihood that many others are wondering the same thing.

Agricultural advocacy is important to Kuster because he, like others in agriculture, gets discouraged by the false and sensationalized information on the internet.

"It's important for those in agriculture to have a voice to APRIL | MAY 2019

dispel the misconceptions, myths and rumors about farming," Kuster said. "Too often agriculture is shown in a negative light and it's our responsibility to dispel those myths."

Connecting with people about agriculture goes beyond social media. Kuster joined Farm Bureau to connect with like-minded individuals and grow his network. As a first-time attendee of WFBF's YFA Conference in 2017, he received a sponsorship to attend the conference from Rural Mutual Insurance Company.

"This was a great opportunity to meet new people and listen to great keynote speakers and workshop presenters," Kuster said. "The messages from Michele Payn, the keynote speaker for the conference, have stuck with me because she really dug into the importance of sharing your ag story in a consumerfriendly manner."

Continuing his Farm Bureau involvement, Kuster volunteered at Day on the Farm at Digman Farms.

Whether online or at a Farm Bureau event, Kuster is committed to advocating for agriculture and connecting people to his family farm. What once seemed like a fun photography hobby has turned into a full-blown agricultural advocacy venture that has allowed Kuster to find his place back home on the family farm.

To learn more, or view Kuster's videos, visit 'How Farms Work' on YouTube.

National Ag Day #WIAgProud

National Ag Day was celebrated on March 14. This was a day to celebrate farmers and agriculturists and the abundance of food choices. Wisconsin Farm Bureau and the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom program had special events to highlight the importance of agriculture in everyone's daily lives.

Facebook Live Picked Poetry." The book's author, Michelle Schaub, did a live book reading that was hosted by the Arrowhead Library System.

A recording of this reading can be found at http://bit.ly/FreshPickedPoetryLive.

The Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Program had two Facebook live book readings to celebrate agriculture. Livia Doyle, a fourth-grade teacher in Mineral Point, read the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture's Book of the Year, "Right This Very Minute" by Lisl Detlefsen with her class eagerly participating throughout. If you missed it, a recording can be found at http://bit. ly/RightThisVeryMinuteLive.

WFBF also had a Facebook live event that highlighted agriculture careers. The career panel comprised of: Justin Doyle, agriculture instructor at Darlington High School, beef farmer and co-owner of On Point Auction Service; Christina Meylor, pig farmer from Darlington; and Troy Lobdell, agriculture instructor at Darlington High School.

The panel was held in conjunction with a high school agriculture class at Darlington High School that allowed students to ask questions in class and also was available to other classrooms via live video and recording. The recording can be viewed at http://bit.ly/2019AgCareerPanelLive.

Rock County Ag in the Classroom also planned a Facebook live reading event with the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Book of the Year "Fresh 16

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Nominate A Farmer Contest This year's National Ag Day theme was, 'Agriculture: Food for Life.' WFBF accepted nominations for a new Nominate A Farmer Contest that was designed to recognize hardworking farmers in Wisconsin. The WFBF Promotion and Education Committee reviewed the nomination forms and selected four finalists. The finalists were Jody Wilhelm, Eau Claire County; Cory Brown, Dane County; Roger Hildebrandt, Dodge County; and Dave and Terri Wilfert, Manitowoc County.

The finalists were featured on WFBF's Facebook page and a voting contest was held to select the winner. The finalist photo with the most 'likes' was deemed the winner. The winners were Dave and Terri Wilfert from Manitowoc. Each of the finalists

received a Culver's coupon with the winners receiving $50 to Blain's Farm & Fleet.

#WIAgProud Campaign Back by popular demand was the #WIAgProud social media campaign. Wisconsinites were asked to download a #WIAgProud sign and share a photo on social media with the hashtag.

Anyone who shared a public post was entered

APRIL | MAY 2019

a drawing to receive a Culver's coupon. Sharing your Wisconsin agriculture pride does not need to be limited to one day, be sure to use this hashtag throughout the year on social media.

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Season New Possibilities New

Same great

Benefits.

For complete details, visit wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits.

You can get more information about the services Farm Bureau Financial offers from your local Rural Insurance agent. Learn more at fbfs.com.

Farm Bureau members who are agricultural producers and patrons of their local FS cooperative are eligible to receive patronage when patronage is paid.

Take advantage of Farm Bureau Bank's FDIC-insured checking, savings and money market accounts, certificates of deposit, credit cards and vehicle and home loans. Visit farmbureaubank.com.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau members save up to 20% off published rates at participating Choice Hotels.

Special member pricing and free shipping. Visit wfbf.com for more details.

Members receive an incentive discount ($300 to $500) when purchasing qualifying Case IH equipment from participating dealers.

Members qualify for a variety of discounts on new purchases. Visit wfbf.com to print your certificate and for details on models and discounts.

Rural Mutual Insurance Company

To find a Rural Mutual Insurance Company agent, visit ruralmutual.com or call 877.219.9550.

Save up to 80% on Office Depot Preferred Products along with reduced prices on ink, paper, office supplies, toner, stamps/daters, pens, pads, furniture and much more.

Wyndham Hotel Group

Wisconsin Farm Bureau members save up to 20% off published rates at participating Wyndham Hotels.

Receive a complimentary John Deere Rewards upgrade (Platinum 2 status) – which unlocks the best loyalty rewards including valuable equipment discounts.

Accidental Death Policy • AgriVisor • Life Line Screening • Office Depot® • Avis • Budget • The Country Today • ScriptSave • $500 Reward Protection Program • AgriPlan Medical Reimbursement Program • John Deere Visit wfbf.com to find out more about your membership benefits!

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*WFBF member benefits may be changed or discontinued at anytime without notice.* WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

MEMBERSHIP

Farm Bureau Members Save on Eligible CAT® Equipment W

hen long-time Waushara County Farm Bureau board member John Piechowski learned about the Caterpillar® discount he started looking at equipment while attending Wisconsin Farm Technology Days. About a year ago, he decided to purchase not one, but two 232D skid loaders.

“Our son and I checked out the Fabick CAT dealerships in Green Bay and Wausau and then because of product availability, we ended up purchasing from the dealership in Madison,” said Piechowski. “We paid more overall purchasing CAT equipment but got more product and the salesman was great. With the Farm Bureau member discount, we purchased two skid loaders and saved an additional $1,000, which made the deal even sweeter.”

The owner of Henry’s Honey John Piechowski and his son Dan used the CAT Piechowski knows about sweet deals. skid loaders to place bee hives on a semi-trailer.

He is the owner of Henry's Honey in purchased with new Fabick CAT equipment. Members Redgranite, which is a family-owned and operated, fourthcan combine Farm Bureau incentives with other discounts, generation business serving central Wisconsin since the promotions, rebates or offers that may be available from CAT early 1930s.

"Henry's Honey started as a few hives, meant to provide or CAT dealer. a sweetener for a farm family's meals during the Great Piechowski highly recommends using the Farm Bureau Depression," said Piechowski. "By World War II, my father member Fabick CAT discount. and uncle were providing beeswax for the war effort. Today, "The sales staff at the dealership were fully aware of the Henry's Honey has about 1,400 hives, down from a peak of Farm Bureau member benefit and the process was very easy," 3,500. I work full-time with our son, Dan and another son, Ron, added Piechowski. helps when he can. We also transport bees regionally for the Salesman Pat Benish said that he has many success stories about working with Farm Bureau members who want to use the commercial pollination of crops."

CAT member benefit discount.

Piechowski explained that they use the skid loaders to load and unload bee hives and to clear the driveway so semi-trailers "Working with Henry's Honey Farm and John and Dan can navigate.

Piechowski is a great example of one of them," said Benish.

"During this last winter, the skid loaders got a workout with "I first met the Piechowskis while they were working in their shop. They mentioned that they had attended farm shows in all of the snow. With the area that we clear, it can take as much the past, and saw the Fabick CAT booth and had looked at the as a tank of gas," said Piechowski. "Many of the semi-truck Caterpillar equipment." drivers commented how clear our driveway was making their Benish took time and looked at the trade-in equipment, and jobs much easier." then selected and recommended the best Caterpillar model, "The Farm Bureau Fabick CAT member benefit lends itself with the specifications that they were interested in. to additional savings when purchasing new equipment," said Benish encourages Wisconsin Farm Bureau members to take Piechowski. "It definitely influenced our buying decisions." advantage of the benefit from Caterpillar, it is provided on many Piechowski worked with Pat Benish, territory manager at different machine models.

Fabick CAT in Madison, who provided information about the discount.

"Be sure to mention that you're a Farm Bureau member," “Pat Benish was a great guy to work with,” added Piechowski. added Benish.

“He did his research, he talked to us to learn how we were going Fabick CAT has dealerships throughout the state, in the to use the equipment and answered our follow-up questions.” upper peninsula of Michigan and in Missouri and Illinois.

On top of up to $2,500 savings, Farm Bureau members For more information about Farm Bureau member benefits, receive an additional $250 credit on work tool attachments visit wfbf.com/membership/member-benefits.

APRIL | MAY 2019

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MEMBERSHIP

The Core of Farm Bureau is Membership A s Wisconsin Farm Bureau celebrates its centennial in 2019, there will be many opportunities to pause and reflect on the organization's past successes and to contemplate the challenges we will face in the future. Not many membership organizations continue to find purpose and relevance a full century after their inception.

With that in mind, the question that often arises is "Why has Farm Bureau remained strong and effective despite the countless changes that agriculture has faced over the past 100 years?"

The answer to that question is simple. Just as farmers have had to adjust to changes in technology, production methods, government regulations and consumer demands, so has Farm Bureau. The organization's programs, policy initiatives and member services have adapted to meet the needs of members.

In a constantly changing environment, Farm Bureau has remained a grassroots, member-driven organization, run by farmers and dependent on the input and involvement of those members, as well as the income generated by membership dues. While Farm Bureau's member demographics continue to change, one thing remains constant: the dependency on membership. Farm Bureau will only continue to exist if its membership is engaged, informed and growing.

Membership recruitment and retention has been a top priority for Farm Bureau since the organization's beginnings.

From the start, Farm Bureau's strength is in numbers, and an active, growing membership is the key to Farm Bureau's continued success as the 'Voice of Agriculture.'

Membership growth builds the financial strength of Farm Bureau at the state and county level and enhances Farm Bureau's influence with legislators and policy makers in Madison and Washington, D.C. A strong and growing base of volunteers is key to the success of every county Farm Bureau and is one of the reasons why the organization's grassroots structure has endured for a century.

In addition to the centennial, WFBF is poised to reach another significant milestone this year. With a membership gain in 2019, WFBF will set an all-time record with 12 consecutive years of membership growth. Farm Bureau membership recruitment and retention efforts are carried out primarily by county Farm Bureau volunteers and Rural Mutual Insurance agents across the state. In support of these efforts, WFBF conducts regional membership kickoff meetings, assists counties in organizing membership drives or other events focusing on

With a membership gain in 2019, WFBF will set an all-time record with 12 consecutive years of membership growth.

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By Bob Leege

membership recruitment; produces and distributes membership materials for use by county volunteers and Rural agents; and provides a series of incentives and rewards to volunteers, agents and county Farm Bureaus.

During the 2018 membership year, more than 200 Farm Bureau volunteers teamed up to sign a total of 671 new members. In addition, the Rural Mutual Insurance agency force signed up more than 3,500 new members.

Anyone can sign up a new Farm Bureau member, and all Farm Bureau membership volunteers qualify for a $20 cash incentive for every new member signed. That's right! Even if you've never signed a new member before, you can qualify for the cash incentive simply by signing up a friend or neighbor.

For a membership application, visit wfbf.com and click on 'Join' or call 800.261.FARM to request a supply of membership applications.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Farm Bureau Chicken Bow Tie Pasta Salad Ingredients

Recipe submitted by Caroline Kannel, St. Croix County

• 1 lb. bow tie pasta • 1 1/2 c. chicken breast, cooked • 1 c. cherry-flavored Craisins • 3-4 green onions, chopped • 4 stalks celery, diced • 1/4 c. powdered sugar

• 2 Tbsp. white wine vinegar • 2 c. mayonnaise • 2 Tbsp. poppy seeds • 2 Tbsp. cold water • 2 tsp. salt • 1/2 tsp. black pepper

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions.

2. Drain, rinse in cold water.

3. For dressing, combine powdered sugar, vinegar, mayonnaise, poppy seeds,

water, salt and black pepper.

4. In another bowl, combine chicken, Craisins, green onions, celery and noodles.

5. Add dressing and mix well.

Directions

Raspberry Jell-O® Salad Ingredients

Recipe submitted by Kathy Manske, Waupaca County

• 1 large box raspberry Jell-O • 3, 6 oz. containers of raspberry yogurt • 1, 12 oz. container of Cool Whip© • 1, 20 oz. bag of frozen berries, thawed and drained • 2 c. water

Directions

1. Mix Jell-O with 1 c. boiling water. Stir well until dissolved.

2. Add 1 c. cold water.

3. Put in refrigerator for one hour.

4. Mix remaining ingredients in.

5. Top with raspberries.

Strawberry Pecan Salad Salad Ingredients

Recipe submitted by Lauren Brey, Door County

• 1 package of Romaine hearts, chopped • 1 container fresh strawberries, halved • 2 oz. Feta cheese

• ¼ c. red onion, thinly sliced • 15 oz. Mandarin oranges, drained • 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced • 1 c. candied pecans

• 1/3 c. granulated sugar • ½ c. lemon juice • ½ tsp. salt

• 1 tsp. Dijon mustard •1 /3 c. olive oil • 1 Tbsp. poppyseeds

1. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, strawberries, oranges, feta cheese and red onion. Add diced chicken. Toss gently.

2. I n a jar, combine dressing ingredients and shake until well mixed.

3. W hen ready to serve, add candied pecans and dressing.

Dressing Ingredients

Directions

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Wi s

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Legislative Accomplishments Farm Bureau Celebrates a Century of Representing Farmers

rom the earliest days of Wisconsin Farm Bureau, the organization realized that achieving success in the legislative arena required working with both political parties on legislation favorable to Wisconsin farmers.

Appointed on July 16, 1920, the members of the first legislative committee were George Hull, Charles A Peterson and Paul Burchard. In 1921, committees were established for the promotion of butter, cheese, milk, potatoes, sugar beets, wool, fruits, vegetables, peas and livestock.

One of Farm Bureau’s early George Hull victories occurred in 1931 when the legislature passed a bill that increased the state gasoline tax and doubled the allotment per mile to improve town roads.

In 1940, Lewis Roherty and R.J. Douglas registered as Farm Bureau lobbyists. Farm Bureau staff needed to work in the halls of Wisconsin’s Capitol if they were going to be successful in helping Wisconsin farmers increase their net incomes.

As urban populations grew, it became more important for farmers to have a strong voice in R.J. Douglas the legislature.

At the national level, Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s influence was noticed when President H.C. Hemmingway spoke against “the U.S. Government’s plea to the American citizens not to eat butter and cheese, but to save some for the Europeans fighting in the war.”

Hemmingway said that the Wisconsin farmer was prepared to produce what the market demanded and that such a plea from the U.S. government would hurt farmers.

In 1945, Farm Bureau’s focus on Wisconsin’s legislative activity increased when William KasaKaitus was hired as legislative director. As Farm Bureau membership and influence grew, Farm Bureau’s credibility with Wisconsin legislators increased. The voice of sound agricultural principles was heard clearly throughout the state.

In 1953, for instance, 93 bills impacting farmers were introduced in the legislature.

Acting on policy set by voting delegates, Farm Bureau supported 83 of the bills.

Sixty-nine of the bills became law. Nine of the 10 bills Farm Bureau opposed were killed or withdrawn.

In 1955, the legislature developed a program that ended the costly animal disease, brucellosis. The program required the state to pay for brucellosis re-tests, requiring slaughter of reactors within 15 days and appropriating

WFBF Centennial Timeline WI Farm Supply Co. and WI Cooperative Plant Foods Co. merge to form WI FARMCO SERVICE COOPERATIVE "The Women's Short Course" leadership conference becomes the "FARM BUREAU WOMEN'S CONFERENCE" WFBF takes operating control of "THE CLEARING" SCHOOL AND CONFERENCE CENTER in Door County

1953 WFBF supported 83 BILLS that directly affected farmers and 69 OF THEM BECAME LAW. NINE OF THE 10 BILLS WFBF opposed were defeated or withdrawn

WFBF works with the legislature to create and fund a state plan to ELIMINATE THE COSTLY ANIMAL DISEASE, BRUCELLOSIS

1954

1955

Associated Women of Farm Bureau Committee changed to WFBF WOMEN'S COMMITTEE WFBF MEMBERSHIP 34,506 Curtis Hatch President - 1943-58

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

$958,000 more to fight brucellosis from 1955 to 1957.

In August 1956, Wisconsin was officially designated a ‘brucellosis-free’ state.

In the early 1950s, it was not a prosperous time for Wisconsin dairy farmers. The government started talking about a quota system for dairy farmers, promising that if such a system were implemented, production could be controlled, and the price of milk would make dairy farming profitable. Farm Bureau led the opposition against a government-imposed quota, insisting there wasn’t a problem with over production but a problem of underselling.

Farm Bureau supported a state dairy promotion program - a program that gave farmers the opportunity to help themselves and allowed markets to work.

In November 1957, an Interstate highway system extending from Milwaukee to Minneapolis and St. Paul was planned, which would navigate through 17,000 acres of farmland and affect 1,000 farmers.

Farm Bureau protected the interests of its members by creating the state’s eminent domain law, which ensured that farmers were fairly compensated for the right-of-way and acquisition of land.

Property taxes have been an ongoing issue for farmers and Farm Bureau. As early as the 1950s, Farm Bureau advocated a use-value assessment formula for determining farmland property taxes. In 1994, the legislature made the change after legislation passed the Senate but was delayed in an Assembly committee. It is one of Farm Bureau’s most important issues.

In 1984, Farm Bureau started its School Taxes Off Property (STOP) to increase awareness of the need for property tax reform. In 1993, their efforts paid off when the legislature put a freeze on property tax rates and passed

WFBF President Don Poulson spoke at a property tax rally on the State Capitol steps in 1993.

legislation to take at least two-thirds of school costs off property tax.

February 8, 1967, marked a milestone in Farm Bureau history. Backed by Farm Bureau’s support, the legislature successfully defeated attempts to legalize the sale of colored oleomargarine within its boundaries.

After the retirement of KasaKaitus in 1977, Roger Cliff was hired as the executive director of governmental relations.

Through the years, governmental relations staff were added to mediate local, state and national issues.

In 1988, Farm Bureau’s political action committee was created to convince the public to support Farm Bureau member interests and increase political presence.

Recently, Farm Bureau has defended farmers on the right to farm law, use value assessment and water rights. The voice of agriculture continues making its presence known representing for farmers at the state and national levels.

Look for more history summaries in the upcoming issues of Rural Route. Excerpts from "Seventy-Five Years of Farm Bureau in Wisconsin" were used for this article.

The Casualty and Fire Insurance Companies are merged under the name RURAL MUTUAL INSURANCE CO.

1957

MISS WI FARM BUREAU program reorganized (first time since 1939)

1960

Farm Bureau gets laws passed involving EMINENT DOMAIN TO PROTECT FARMERS FROM TAKINGS by the new interstate system of highways

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Percy Hardiman President - 1959-69

1961 WFBF succeeds in creating a 3-cent sales tax for PROPERTY TAX RELIEF

WFBF "STOP SIGNS" appear

1964 YOUNG FARMERS COMMITTEE created

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OPINION

The Soil of Ag Trade Is Fertile

A Message from AFBF President Zippy Duvall

C

ustomers around the world know that 'American-grown' means top quality, so it's no surprise the U.S. exports more agricultural products than we bring in. For more than 50 years, our industry has carried a trade surplus because our farmers and ranchers grow and produce the best food, fuel and fiber in the world. Not only that, our success lifts the whole economy as ag exports support more than 1 million U.S. jobs.

We have a lot to be proud of, and a lot more to accomplish, when it comes to trade.

We also need to bring stability back to our trading relationship with our nearest neighbors by working with Congress and the administration to ratify the U.S.Mexico-Canada Agreement as quickly as possible. America's farmers and ranchers have experienced tremendous gains from the North American Free Trade Agreement, and we're ready to build on those with the new USMCA. Deals like this are good for agriculture and our whole economy. According to Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the U.S. enjoyed a trade surplus of $12 billion in countries where we had a trade agreement in 2015, but we only had agreements in force with 20 countries. And that remains the case today. We need to keep

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moving forward by expanding our market access, before we get left behind as other countries form agreements without us.

Unfortunately, it hasn't been all good news with trade over the last year.

Farmers have gotten caught in the crossfire of a year-long trade war with China. If we're honest, however, we know a trade war has been going on much longer there. The U.S. trade deficit with China was $375 billion in 2017 alone— that number doesn't include money lost from China's unfair business practices.

We all know a fair deal when we see one, and you can't call that kind of an imbalance fair. No doubt, farmers and ranchers are hurting from lost markets as tariffs have escalated back-and-forth, but we are hopeful that the administration's tough stance will yield long-term rewards for our country's economy, including rural communities that have suffered from economic hardship.

This spring we are beginning to see a ray of hope as talks continue with China. This has been a long road, and I know we're all eager to see the situation resolved. From positive reports in recent days, it seems we are getting closer. We have been encouraged by the announcement of more purchases of U.S. ag products by China, as well as by the President's decision to delay indefinitely another tariff increase on Chinese imports that had been planned for last month. If we're going to keep agricultural trade successful, we must hold our trading partners accountable and move forward with new deals—and that's just what the administration is doing.

With the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans Pacific Partnership already ratified

by Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and Singapore, USTR's upcoming trade talks with Japan could not come soon enough. The Pacific market is an amazing growth opportunity for U.S. agriculture with Japan already a top five market for our ag exports.

We cannot afford missing out here. The American Farm Bureau estimated that the original TPP would have increased net farm income by $4.4 billion and would have added more than 40, 000 jobs to our economy had we joined the agreement. It's time to get a trade deal with Japan that will reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers and improve science-based sanitary measures to bring our farmers greater access to this booming market.

We are also eager for USTR's planned talks with the EU and UK to break down agricultural barriers and bring balance to trade across the Atlantic. For too long, the European Union has set unfair, nonscientific barriers on our farm products – resulting in a negative trade balance of $70 billion over the last decade. This is unacceptable treatment of American farmers and ranchers who abide by the highest safety and quality standards in the world. Farm Bureau is grateful that the administration is once again sticking by farmers and ranchers: They have made it clear that there will be no deal without including agriculture.

There's no question 2018 was a tough year for many of us in farm country, and part of the reason for that is the turbulence on the trade front. But we can come out on the other side stronger than ever, and I believe we will. In fact, President Trump personally has assured us of that. American farmers and ranchers will continue to be leaders in every market where we have fair access to customers. Let's keep up the good work of planting seeds for ag trade by making our voices heard with Congress and the administration. We are already seeing good results, and a harvest of new and growing markets will come if we don't give up hope.

President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, Duvall raises beef cattle, hay and poultry in Greshamville, Georgia.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Farm Bill Implementation Underway Guest Column by FSA's Sandy Chalmers

F

armers take financial risks every year just by doing business.

The 2018 Farm Bill bolsters the farm safety net programs and price support programs that give farmers stability and peace of mind to make decisions for the future.

In addition, the 2018 Farm Bill, like others before it, demonstrates strong congressional support for farm loans, safety net, conservation and disaster assistance programs.

Now, Wisconsin Farm Service Agency employees are beginning to rollout the first of many new provisions of the 2018 Farm Bill.

Implementation of any farm bill begins with Congress. Congress provides a legal framework for the programs and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue is tasked with administering the programs. USDA leadership is continuing to work on the administrative details of the 2018 Farm Bill including: scheduling sign-up dates, writing regulations, training employees and developing software.

Secretary Perdue's timeline puts dairy at the top of the list, with signup expected in mid-June. Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage sign-up will begin in the fall, and the expected general enrollment period for the Conservation Reserve Program will be in December.

Farmers are busy people, and it can be difficult to keep track of sign-up dates and deadlines for FSA's programs. We'll send you updates on program sign-up throughout the year, and you can check farmers.gov for up-to-date information.

Of course, our county FSA employees are always happy to answer your calls and emails.

No new FSA programs were added, and no programs were eliminated in the 2018 Farm Bill. We want to streamline, target and simplify our programs, with

APRIL | MAY 2019

the goal of improving customer service.

Secretary Perdue wants the dairy program to roll out first. That is welcome news in Wisconsin, given the stress in the dairy industry and the failure of the 2014 Farm Bill's Margin Protection Program.

Last year, when Congress made changes to MPP that lowered premiums and calculated margins monthly, Wisconsin dairy producers responded.

In 2018, FSA made $60 million in MPP payments to Wisconsin producers.

In the 2018 Farm Bill, Congress reinvented MPP as the Dairy Margin Coverage Program. It's the same basic framework, but with a boost to coverage levels, more reductions in premiums and important new flexibility.

The maximum margin coverage level for dairy farms with five million pounds or less of production is increased to a $9.50 coverage level. We already know the January 2019 DMC margin program rate is $7.99, meaning dairy operations with the $9.50 coverage will see a payment of $1.51 per hundredweight covered.

Dairy farmers are eligible to receive a 25 percent discount on premiums if they make a one-time election locking in coverage levels until 2023.

Farmers who were enrolled in MPPDairy from 2014 to 2017 and paid premiums may be eligible to receive a repayment of premiums paid during those years (less indemnity received).

Farmers can choose to receive 50 percent of the premium repayment in cash, or 75 percent to be applied as credit toward future premiums.

Farmers also will have the flexibility to use DMC in addition to Livestock Gross Margin-Dairy or Dairy Revenue Protection.

FSA will have a decision tool available in mid-April to help farmers analyze the best coverage options for their dairy farms.

Wisconsin FSA will hold farmer meetings in May and June regarding details on the new dairy program.

The 2018 Farm Bill also adds more opportunities for farmers to qualify for Direct Farm Ownership loans, and it increases ownership and operating loan limits. Again, this is needed in Wisconsin where the FSA's loan limits have not kept pace with the cost of doing business.

FSA's disaster programs will continue to provide needed support to our farmers to rehabilitate farmland damaged by natural disasters. The 2018 Farm Bill also broadens conservation efforts by authorizing two CRP pilot programs that prioritize practices to benefit water resources.

The 2018 Farm Bill is an important tool, but it doesn't work without the dedication of the folks in the field, the FSA field staff and the farmers who use it to make the best decisions for their land and businesses.

We look forward to serving you.

Chalmers was appointed by USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue to serve as State Executive Director for the Wisconsin Farm Service Agency.

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OPINION

Sharing our Water Story in Madison A Message from WFBF President Jim Holte

O

n April 3, I had the opportunity to testify before the Speaker's Task Force on Water Quality in Madison.

As president of Wisconsin Farm Bureau, I have testified on a variety of topics. There was an even higher level of importance on this testimony, because it focused on water. As a farmer, I know how our industry works to keep this precious resource safe. It's important to make sure others understand the farmers' long-standing commitment to water quality.

In my testimony, I stressed that farmers are the original stewards of the land and our story includes evolution in farming practices to do more with less. We can harvest more corn per acre using less fertilizer, applying fewer pest management products while improving soil health and water quality.

We rely on science to help us understand the complexities of our practices and how those practices impact

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our farms and the environment. Much of that research is done at our land-grant university, UW-Madison, in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and with our integrated research specialists who work with UW Extension.

Wisconsin farmers live where they farm and drink the water that flows under their fields. No one cares about water quality more than farmers who are directly impacted by it. We have a personal stake in this dynamic water discussion.

I testified to ensure that farmers have a voice to share the best practices farmers have implemented.

I want to take you back to when the nonpoint program was created. WFBF was committed to being at the table because we understood that farmers needed scientifically-supported guidelines in place that addressed solutions for clean water and manure management practices.

We were committed to helping design a program that farmers could use.

We also were involved in the Natural Resources Conservation Service Standards Oversight Committee that updates the standards for nutrient management development and improvement of these standards. These are aimed at protecting groundwater and surface water safety.

Farm Bureau members were at the forefront of the Producer-Led Watershed Grant program and supported its inception and continued growth. This program is successful throughout the state because farmers collaborate to find solutions to problems that directly impact their farms and rural communities. This collaboration of stakeholders allows farmers to have a voice in how and why

practices are implemented on their farms.

WFBF has long supported the Land and Water Conservation staff at the county level. This staff support helps farmers with implementation of conservation practices. There is a direct correlation between these conservation practices and water quality.

While farmers understand the need to create models for scientific studies, actual on-farm data holds the most weight because it is based on actual outcomes that are measured and not predicted.

Some of the best on-farm research and data has come to the farming community through research by staff at UW Discovery Farms. These farm sites are working farms that implement on-farm practices and measure the impacts on surface water quality.

Whether it's representing our members on a water-related committee or testifying, WFBF is engaged in the water conversation and participating in every opportunity that we have.

This is not a brief discussion, but it will continue to evolve through this year and the future. I encourage you to get involved with a local watershed, engage with nearby environmental groups and attend water-related meetings in your areas.

As farmers we need to be engaged on the topic of water quality, and that's why I shared our story on April 3.

President of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation since 2012, Holte is a grain and beef farmer from Elk Mound.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Let’s Talk About Water

A Message from WFBF's Amy Eckelberg

A

s long as I can remember water has been a topic of discussion for farmers and agri-business owners. Why wouldn’t it be? It’s a valuable resource for growing crops and raising livestock. It’s also a necessary resource for maintaining your health and for recreation. This makes water quality a controversial topic.

When water becomes polluted, it’s everyone’s interest.

The topic of water ignites many emotions and rightfully so. Families and livelihoods are impacted. With invested emotion, it’s easy to give up having a conversation.

It can be frustrating to talk to someone who has no idea how much investment you have made into keeping the water resources clean on your farm.

However, from the other point of view it’s frustrating to know you have unclean water and not know why or how it happened.

There are many valid points and invested interests, that’s why we need to work together to figure out solutions.

When was the last time you engaged someone on the water topic? If you don’t think water quality conversations are happening in your area, you need to take another look. And I promise you the discussion is not going to stop any time soon.

To start a conversation, first, you

APRIL | MAY 2019

must remove your emotions from the discussion. You also need to acknowledge that at the end of the day everyone wants the same outcome: a clean water supply.

Listening doesn’t always happen during controversial conversations. It’s important to remove your bias and be open to what others are saying.

When I facilitate media trainings with Farm Bureau members, we spend time drafting key messages. Whether you are talking to family, friends or neighbors, or environmentalists, focusing on these key messages is critical.

When I talk with Farm Bureau members about water quality key messages, I focus on these two points.

1. Safe water is important to everyone.

2. The water studies conducted throughout the state need to be taken seriously because they will influence what happens next.

A key message that can never be used enough is reminding people that everyone wants the same outcome when it comes to water quality.

I also always highlight the importance of talking about what you do on your farm. You know better than anyone how you are handling water quality.

Talk about the best management practices that you have implemented and emphasize the thought process behind your farming decisions.

The discussion on water quality is happening whether we as farmers and agriculturists participate or not. It’s not always easy, but it’s important to engage your community on the topic of water quality and to discuss what you are doing on your farm. Make time to become engaged and use your Farm Bureau resources.

It’s always been a good idea to talk about water quality, but in this year of ‘clean water’ it has never been more important.

Eckelberg is WFBF's Executive Director of Public Relations.

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OPINION

Weather Turning a Top Focus for Markets Guest Column by AgriVisor's Joe Camp

S

pring has arrived and with it comes the promise of a new planting season.

A wet start is putting to test ideas about major gains coming for corn acreage after a short fall had compressed the window for fertilizer applications.

The market was quick to price in acreage intentions estimated by the March 29 Prospective Plantings report, traders knowing that the numbers may change dramatically if spring weather stays disruptive. A rough consensus remains to call for corn area near 91 to 92 million acres and soybeans near 86 to 87 million acres.

Growers in central U.S. are still drying out after a 'bomb cyclone' dropped

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enough rain to flood hundreds of thousands of acres and cause more than $3 billion in total damages.

Market impact also is being felt from perished old crop stocks and the shuttering of rail lines and more than 10 percent of the nation's ethanol producing capacity.

Worries about spring planting delays and preventions may well eventually give way to optimism about summer production prospects, given that the majority of the Corn Belt will be carrying substantial soil moisture surpluses into the season.

Most meteorologists credit El Niño for the wetter bias represented by current long-range forecasts. El Niño has helped to warm ocean waters west of Mexico in a way that is conducive to wetter weather in the southern and Midwest regions of the U.S. El Niño also may still have more to say about production prospects in South America. Growers in Brazil and Argentina were afflicted with some of the adverse weather influences normally associated with El Niño, namely too much water in parts of Argentina and too little throughout the key growing areas of Brazil. Both countries will still haul in strong row crop harvests this year, but El Niño's impact has been to take away top-end yield potential. A slow exit for El Niño could still cause some trouble for

Brazil's 'safrinha' corn crop.

The uncertainty of spring weather may create better opportunities for marketing in the few months ahead. Patience on sales should remain warranted as the usual seasonal risk premium starts to show up in prices.

General patience, while seemingly justified, should not turn into complacence. Our analysts will still advocate a scale-up sales plan that encourages small sales to be made as prices rise toward elevated price targets.

Consider matching cash sales with replacement hedges like the long call option to stay open for participation in possible upside in the futures market.

Options are not suitable for everyone.

Likewise, there are risks associated with seasonal-based marketing strategies that should be fully considered. Talk with your advisor to discuss if these strategies may fit into your marketing program.

A farmer once said that the only thing worse than a market analyst is the weatherman. Prepare to hear much more from the market analysts about weather's possible influence on prices in the coming weeks. And this spring, plan to take advantage of price strength that may follow from the usual seasonal injection of weather-related risk premium.

Camp is the risk management specialist for AgriVisor, one of WFBF's member benefits.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Up the Creek A column by Ken M. Blomberg

C

onsider the worm. A lowly creature rarely contemplated. Unless of course, you happen to be a robin, a woodcock, a possum on the prowl or a farmer. Out of sight, out of mind. A tube-shaped, segmented creature feeding on organic matter and lurking worldwide in the soil.

Charles Darwin, in his 1895 book "On the Origin of Species," noted, "It may be doubted whether there are many other animals which have played so important a part in the history of the world, as have these lowly organized creatures."

Of this we know. Earthworms have no eyes, but are not blind. They have specialized photosensitive cells from head to tail, filled with sensory microvilli and cilia that allow them to 'see' where they have been and where they are going.

An earthworm's remarkable, yet simple digestive system runs the length of its body, from its mouth at the beginning to its anus at the end. Muscles on each segment of its outer body enable the worm to move. And similar muscles in the intestinal gut push digested organic food from mouth to esophagus, crop, gizzard, intestine and anus.

Scientists tell us earthworm activity aerates and mixes soil, while its rich organic waste mixes with minerals in the soil and aids in soil fertility. Abundant numbers of earthworms are considered APRIL | MAY 2019

beneficial by farmers and gardeners alike. Ever wonder how many earthworms you have living on your farm?

An article published in England's "Farmers Weekly," reported a recent survey found worms rare or absent in 40 percent of cultivated fields. This comprehensive study showed two out of five fields deficient of worm populations, and reflected widespread historical over-cultivation.

Volunteer farmers dug 10 small pits across their fields and counted worms. The project covered 3,256 acres of farmland in England. Conducted last spring, they found the average field had nine earthworms per spadeful of soil. The best fields had three times that number. 42 percent of fields had poor earthworm biodiversity, with few or none collected.

Project organizer Jackie Shroud said that deepburrowing worms are slow to reproduce, so it could take up to a decade of changed soil management practices to recover depleted populations. Organic matter management has a mixed impact, while straw retention and manuring have no significant positive effect; however, cover crops significantly increase deep-burrowing worms.

"Earthworms influence carbon cycling, water infiltration, pesticide movement, greenhouse gas emissions, plant productivity, the breeding success of birds and even the susceptibility of plants to insect attack," Shroud said.

Closer to home, Clive Edwards, an Ohio State University entomologist put it like this, "What comes out the back end of an earthworm is up to 10 times more useful than what goes in the front. Earthworms break down organic matter and turn it into soluble forms of phosphorus and potassium, as well as nitrates and ammonium nitrogen that are readily available to plants."

Others in the know tell us abundant earthworms can add nutrients worth $34 an acre to a field. They say 25 worms per square foot equals one ton of worms per acre, producing two-thirds of an inch of worm manure or 100 tons of casting on the surface of each acre.

So, there you have it. But before you grab your spade and start digging holes to count worms, take the advice of researchers at Iowa State University and start counting 'middens.' They claim counting middens in fields help determine earthworm populations in the soil. Middens are heaps of biological material left behind by the earthworms.

They go on to say research shows that cover crops like rye can increase earthworm populations, and higher soil organic matter levels mean higher earthworm populations.

Blomberg is a freelance writer and a member of the Portage County Farm Bureau. His book, "Up the Creek" is available at amazon.com. wfbf.com

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MORE THAN 225 ATTEND

FFA FARM FORUM M

ore than 225 high school juniors from across Wisconsin attended Wisconsin Farm Bureau's FFA Farm Forum in Wisconsin Rapids, February 15-16.

"This event is a great partnership between Wisconsin Farm Bureau and Wisconsin FFA," said WFBF President Jim Holte. "Young ag leaders who attend this event participate in professional development activities, explore ag careers and learn about current issues facing agriculture while networking with their peers and Farm Bureau staff."

During the two-day event at Hotel Mead in Wisconsin Rapids, FFA members attended workshops on post-secondary agricultural opportunities, social media, agricultural advocacy and leadership.

Joining WFBF President Holte as keynote speakers at the event were Alison Wedig, marketing specialist for Culver Franchising System, Inc. and Chris Pollack, co-owner of Pollack-Vu Dairy.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation sponsors FFA Farm Forum in cooperation with the Wisconsin Association of FFA. This year's FFA Farm Forum marks the 47th time the event has been hosted for Wisconsin youth.

At the FFA Farm Forum, FFA members selected breakout sessions on topics such as Ag in the Classroom resources, advocacy, social media and more.

Alison Wedig of Culver Franchising System, Inc., hosted a breakout session on how FFA chapters can partner with their local Culver's restaurant.

Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Coordinator Darlene Arneson sent attendees home with many resources to use when visiting younger students or hosting educational events.

Winneconne FFA members Morgan Selwitschka, Evelyn Brzozowski, Nadia Meyerhofer and Morghan O'Connell smiled for a photo.

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The FFA Farm Forum is sponsored by

:

for Farming’s Future (WFB Foundation)

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

APRIL | MAY 2019

wfbf.com

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NATIONAL CONFERENCE VISITS MILWAUKEE

I

n March, more than 70 Wisconsin Farm Bureau members attended the FUSION Conference in Milwaukee. The event included an opening reception on March 15 followed by three days of speakers, workshops and tours.

WFBF Vice President Kevin Krentz welcomed attendees during the opening session and many workshop presenters were WFBF members and staff. WFBF staff member Wendy Kannel and WFBF Young Farmer and Agriculturist Committee members Julie Wadzinski, Emily Johnson and Kelly Oudenhoven presented on county YFA programs.

WFBF Promotion and Education Committee Chair Andrea Brossard and WFBF staff member Patti Roden presented a workshop called 'Consumer Education: Man on the Street.'

Other Wisconsin presenters were Judy Rupnow from MorganMyers; Kim Bremmer from Ag Inspirations, LLC; Tim and Danielle Clark from Mayberry Farms; Sarah Hetke

from WFBF; Rick Henningfeld from AFBF Foundation for Agriculture and John Shutske from UW-Madison.

Kati Kindschuh from UW-River Falls represented Wisconsin in the Collegiate Discussion Meet. Collegiate Farm Bureau members Jared Retzlaff and Ciera Ballmer served as conference interns.

During the conference, Derek and Charisse Orth wrapped up their terms on the AFBF Young Farmer & Rancher Committee. Rosalie Geiger also retired from the AFBF Promotion and Education Committee.

To see photos from the conference, visit Wisconsin Farm Bureau's social media channels.

(From left): WFBF staff member Wendy Kannel, along with YFA Committee members Julie Wadzinski, Kelly Oudenhoven and Emily Johnson organized a panel discussion about organizing your county YFA program.

They shared tips, tricks and some successes to more than 100 attendees.

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WFBF Vice President Kevin Krentz welcomed nearly 1,100 Fusion Conference attendees to Wisconsin.

He highlighted the state's diverse agriculture community and its $88.4 billion impact on Wisconsin's economy.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

The Fusion Conference kicked off with a networking reception with conference sponsors.

Thank you to all of the sponsors who made this event possible including Culver's.

UW-River Falls Collegiate Farm Bureau member Kati Kindschuh represented Wisconsin in the Collegiate Discussion Meet.

Derek and Charisse Orth were recognized for completing their two-year term on the AFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee.

APRIL | MAY 2019

UW-Madison's Ciera Ballmer and UW-River Falls's Jared Retzlaff served as two of the four conference social media interns. They shared what was happening throughout the weekend on Instagram and Twitter.

Jim Morris, whose story is the subject of Walt Disney's "The Rookie," was one of the keynote speakers. He encouraged attendees to surround themselves with the best people possible, those who are the dream makers.

Rosalie Geiger was recognized as she completed her two-year term on the AFBF Promotion and Education Committee.

WFBF YFA Committee member Emily Johnson led the Sunday morning devotional service. wfbf.com

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LEADERSHIP • ENGAGEMENT • ADVOCACY • DEVELOPMENT

First-Time Ag LEAD Summit Brings Farmers Together to Talk about Advocating

O

n March 8 and 9, more than 120 farmers and agriculture advocates joined together at the first-ever Ag LEAD Summit in Appleton.

The opening keynote speaker was Donna Moenning from the Center for Food Integrity, who shared data on how farmers can best engage people on food and farming topics. The closing keynote speaker was Jay Hill a New Mexico farmer, entrepreneur and agricultural advocate who encouraged attendees to step outside of their comfort zones to talk about life on the farm.

The event was coordinated by WFBF's Promotion and Education Committee whose mission is to build awareness and understanding of agriculture and provide leadership development for the agricultural community.

"The Ag LEAD Summit provided some great insight to

The Center for Food Integrity's Donna Moenning shared data on how farmers can best engage people on food and farming topics in her opening keynote address.

The first-ever Ag LEAD Summit gave plenty of opportunities to network and practice new skills.

our members to better connect with food consumers," said dairy farmer and chair of WFBF's Promotion and Education committee Andrea Brossard. "From learning the correct way to handle tough conversations, to understanding the intensely competitive grocery industry in Wisconsin, our attendees are well-equipped to be better advocates for our industry."

Ag LEAD stands for leadership, engagement, advocacy and development. The summit gave attendees the opportunity to learn more about tools, resources, ideas and best practices when advocating for agriculture and conducting promotional events. Rural Mutual Insurance Company was a co-sponsor of the Ag LEAD Summit, which takes place on a biennial basis.

Wisconsin Grocer Association President and CEO Brandon Scholz talked about the grocery industry to Ag LEAD Summit attendees.

Jay Hill, a New Mexico farmer, entrepreneur and agricultural advocate, encouraged participants to step outside of their comfort zones to talk about life on the farm during his closing keynote address.

Ag LEAD Summit attendees wrote their takeaways on post-it notes and shared them with others on this display in-between sessions.

Andrea Brossard and Patti Roden shared their experiences with engaging consumers.

Collegiate Farm Bureau member Jared Mack from UWRiver Falls networked with other participants in a breakout session.

Many breakout sessions were offered at the Ag LEAD Summit. The four tracks included Leading Your Own Self Development, Engaging Consumers, Advocating for Agriculture and Developing Agribusinesses.

Attendees worked in small groups to talk about leadership qualities during the session, 'You Don't Need a Title to be a Leader.'

WFBF's Director of Local Affairs Steve Boe showed where to find information on government websites during a breakout session.

ggie nswers

SAMANTHA SOLIN Marathon County

I enjoyed listening to and learning from Donna Moenning, the opening speaker.

It was sad, yet insightful, to hear what the consumer trends are and what we as farmers need to do to turn these insights around so the farmer and consumer can come together over shared values.

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LANCE WOLOSEK Portage County

The Ag LEAD Summit was a great opportunity to network with people with a common interest; gaining skills to be better advocates for agriculture. I enjoyed the structure and the ability to choose breakout sessions tailored to my specific interests. I can't wait for the next one.

We asked attendees: What did you like best about attending the Ag LEAD Summit?

BERNADETTE KRENTZ Waushara County

I really enjoyed these two workshops, 'It's ok to not be ok' with Jeff Ditzenberger and the ag safety workshop, 'It will never happen to me' with Melissa Ploeckelman with the Marshfield Clinic. It also was great visiting with other Farm Bureau members. It was definitely worth my time to attend.

BOB FOX Outagamie County

They showed us how to address the consumers when they question the processes that are used to raise the product. There also was a good session on being a good leader by listening to the people you're working with.

SYDNEY ENDRES Columbia County

I loved the quality of the presenters Farm Bureau got for the first Ag LEAD Summit.

The breakout sessions were educational, keynote speakers uplifting and it is always so much fun to connect with more Farm Bureau members.

KYLE MUCH Waupaca County

Learning about the grocery association really opened up my eyes to the challenges they face.

Just like agriculture is facing a workforce shortage grocery stores are also facing a shortage. Grocery stores also have small profit margins like dairy farms.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

Wi s

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au re

n Farm B nsi u o c

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ten nia

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Centennial

Clothing Sale

items available through April 22

To order, visit wifarmbureau19.itemorder.com/sale

More items available online!

Proceeds from the sale go to the WFB Foundation.

APRIL | MAY 2019

wfbf.com

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Jake Anfang, Helenville

Amber McComish, Darlington

Rob Klussendorf, Medford

Brad Weber, Auburndale

Rochelle Biegel Hoffman, Wisconsin Rapids

Heidi Pettis, Clintonville

Katie Mattison, Eau Galle

Send us YOUR Photos

Wisconsin Farm Bureau members live and work with beautiful landscapes and livestock. On this page we highlight those sights and special moments.

Please email your best photos (high resolution jpgs, 4x6 inches at 300 dpi) to Lsiekmann@wfbf.com. Due to the high volume of photos we receive, we are unable to publish every photo. Photos sent in may be used in other WFBF publications.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

LEADERSHIP

Leadership Institute Builds Leaders F or 13 years, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation’s Leadership Institute has been developing strong and effective agricultural leaders. This program provides personal growth and leadership training to those who have the potential to make a positive impact on Wisconsin agriculture.

Since 2007, 165 members have graduated. Eighty-four percent of graduates have stayed involved with county or district events. Twenty-seven have become county Farm Bureau presidents. Ten have joined the WFBF Board of Directors and six have been appointed to American Farm Bureau committees. Even more impressive are the 117 graduates who now sit on their county Farm Bureau board.

Program topics include personal strengths, emotional intelligence, public speaking, building trust, conflict management, bridging generations, advocacy and policy.

The program ends with a capstone trip to Washington, D.C., with the WFBF Board of Directors.

The Leadership Institute is offered on a biennial basis.

Applications for the 2021 class will be available in January 2020. For more information, visit wfbf.com/programs/ leadership-institute.

Members of Class XIII are (from left): Mike Harms, Lafayette County; Chris Gerbitz, Rock County; Katie Zoromski, Marathon County; Amber McComish, Lafayette County; Kellie Zahn, Shawano County; John Herman, Portage County; Lindsey Hellenbrand, Dane County; Dawn Gibson, Eau Claire County; Brenda Dowiasch, Eau Claire County; Jaime Sawle, Winnebago County; John Eron, Portage County; and Scott Timm, Green County.

Members put their communication skills to the test through an interactive activity during one of the program’s five sessions.

At each session, members further developed their public speaking skills and added to their leadership skills.

APRIL | MAY 2019

wfbf.com

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FOUNDATION

Campaign to Raise $100,000 in Honor of Centennial

W

isconsin Farm Bureau is in the midst of a fundraising campaign to raise at least $100,000 by the 2020 WFBF Annual Meeting. This campaign is meant to serve as a celebration and a monetary foundation for WFBF’s exceptional educational programs.

Farm Bureau members are served well by leadership development programs and this campaign will enhance funding for these programs.

“This fundraiser is all about paying it forward for the next generation of farmers and agriculturists,” said WFBF CAO and Centennial Committee Chair Dale Beaty. “We understand the agriculture economy is struggling but just as our predecessors laid a solid foundation for us during tough times, we too must invest knowing this current downturn is temporary. The need for farmers and the food they raise is always growing. Thank you to the members and businesses who have already contributed.”

Currently the pledged amount for the campaign is $38,500. Please consider contributing. All donations are

Centennial Donations between January 30 and March 28, 2019.

AGvocate

$1,000-$4,999 donation

Angelo Lake Cranberry Company LLC Dan De Boer Dan Merk

welcome. Your tax-deductible contribution will help keep the future of Farm Bureau programming strong.

You can donate online at wfbf.com/centennial.

Contributions will be taken until the 2020 WFBF Annual Meeting.

Centennial Stories To celebrate 100 years, WFBF is sharing 100 Farm Bureau stories. Watch for videos, photos and blog posts on WFBF's social media channels or visit wfbf.com/ centennial.

Thank You to the Following WFB Foundation Donors: (Donations were made between January 30 and March 28, 2019.

•• Racine County Farm Bureau in memory of Collette Peterson •• Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin •• Andrew Peterson

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

County Kernels Sheboygan County – Random Lake Farmers Market

Last fall, Random Lake fifth-grade students hosted a farmers' market for students from third to sixth grade. Students researched and prepared a market. Sheboygan County Farm Bureau donated $200 towards the student-led market. Goods for the market were donated by local businesses Old Wisconsin Sausage, Apple Land, Spieker's Pumpkin Farm, Sheboygan County Dairy Promotion Committee, the Random Lake High School Wood Shop and Random Lake Middle School teacher, Mrs. Schwalbe.

Racine County – Member Social

In January, the Racine County Farm Bureau hosted a social to thank members and community volunteers who helped make the cream puff stand at the Racine County Fair a success. Seventy-four members and guests attended, and everyone enjoyed visiting and trying some new surprises for the cream puff stand. Members also had a chance to show off their bowling skills.

Sauk County – Ag in the Classroom Visit

Brown County – Ag Job Fair

In January, members of the Brown County Farm Bureau Promotion and Education committee presented a booth at the Bay Port High School FFA Job Fair. The job fair was held for high school students interested in agricultural careers. Farm Bureau members shared a diverse array of options not typically thought of as ag careers.

The Ag in the Classroom program has been visiting schools across Sauk County. Students across the county have enjoyed building Professor Product Man out of products grown in Wisconsin. Products that students learned about include fruits, vegetables, cheese, milk and maple syrup.

District 6 and 7 YFA – Green Bay Gamblers Game In February, about 90 YFA members had a blast at the Green Bay Gamblers game and enjoyed pizza at D2 Stadium District Sports Pub. The Gamblers took on the Madison Capitols but lost the game in overtime, 3-4. The game was complete with a wiener dog race during the first intermission.

APRIL | MAY 2019

wfbf.com

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AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Ag in the Classroom Hosts Trainings One-Day Training Sessions I Tuesday, July 9 n July, Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom is hosting its annual bus tour and two, one-day trainings for teachers and volunteers. Attendees will learn to incorporate agricultural concepts into their curricula, network with fellow educators and obtain free resources for students and classrooms. Teachers of all grade levels and subject areas including home school parents and volunteers are encouraged to attend.

Bus Tour

July 15-16 Taylor County Jump on the bus as it takes you on agricultural stops in Taylor County.

The cost is $75 per person and opportunities for credit will be offered.

This year's stops include: Crass Sawmill, Inc., Medford High School Agriculture Department and barn, Hemlock Hills Trophy Ranch, LLC, Stone Acres Farm, Heil Ginseng, Inc., Riesterer & Schnell John Deere dealership, Peissig's JTP Robotic Dairy and Meyer Manufacturing Corporation.

The tour is limited to 50 participants. The registration deadline is June 14. To learn more, visit wisagclassroom.org.

8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

West Madison Research Station, Madison

The training will begin at the West Madison Research Station with presentations from the Wisconsin Beef Council, Wisconsin Pork Association, Discover Mediaworks and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom's Book of the Year will be selected during this event. In the afternoon, attendees will travel to the O.J. Noer facility and participate in a hands-on activity using hand-held reflectance meters and soil moisture probes. The registration deadline is June 30.

Wednesday, July 31 9:15 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Neville Public Museum, Green Bay This one-day training will feature presentations by the Wisconsin Maple Syrup Producers Association, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin and Brown County Dairy Promotions. A tour of the Neville Public Museum and their resources will be part of the afternoon program. There also will be an overview of the resources available through Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom, National Ag in the Classroom and the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture. The registration deadline is July 15.

For more information, please contact the Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Coordinator at 608.828.5644 or darneson@wfbf.com.

To register, visit wisagclassroom.org/teachers-information/ training-opportunities.

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WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION

APRIL | MAY 2019

wfbf.com

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AG IN THE CLASSROOM

Little Rock to Host National Conference T

he National Ag in the Classroom Conference is an opportunity for volunteers, teachers and staff involved in agricultural literacy to really learn about new resources, share ideas and experiences, and network with others involved in agricultural education.

The conference location rotates among the four regions in the National Ag in the Classroom consortium. The 2019 National Conference will be June 18-21 in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Keynote speakers include Temple Grandin and Dr. Marty Matlock. Grandin is a world-renowned animal behaviorist and autism spokesperson. She has written the books "Animals in Translation" and "Animals Make Us Human." Matlock is the executive director of the University of Arkansas Resiliency

Center and Professor of Ecological Engineering in the Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department.

Matlock's research focuses on technologies and processes to increase the resilience of ecosystem services in humandominated ecosystems.

The conference offers a variety of workshops and miniworkshops. In addition, conference participants will go on traveling workshops of nearby agribusinesses and research facilities to learn about beef, poultry and rice production, worldwide hunger at Heifer International and other agricultural issues at these and other stops. American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture will honor teachers and agriculture industry educators at the conference for using agriculture as an effective teaching tool as part of its White-Reinhardt Fund for Education program.

To register for the conference, teachers and volunteers should visit agclassroom.org/conferences/index.cfm.

The 2020 Conference will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, from June 23-26.

WE HOPE YOU CAN JOIN US FOR THE

Wisconsin Ag Open 22ND ANNUAL GOLF OUTING FUNDRAISER THE OAKS GOLF COURSE IN COTTAGE GROVE | TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2019

Contact Darlene Arneson at darneson@wfbf.com or 608.828.5644 for more information.

RURAL MUTUAL

Don't Be Weather Weary and Forget to be Weather Wary T

his winter has been one for the record books.

Throughout the state, we have set or tied records for the earliest trace snowfall, warmest temperatures and recordbreaking rain.

Just when we thought we were in for a moderate winter, the end of January showed up. Ending the month with incredibly cold temperatures that broke or tied records that were a century or more older, Mother Nature was just getting started. In February, she decided we needed snow ‌ record breaking snow.

This spring will bring more challenges compounded by predictions from the Farmer's Almanac of a wet spring. As this snow pack starts to melt, areas around the state will see increased flooding risks.

Now is the time to begin planning for how to address these issues for your home and business. Simple solutions include ensuring your sump pump is up to the challenge.

If your pump is older or gets a regular workout, it is a good time to consider replacing it. Consider adding a sump pump with an integrated redundant pump and a battery backup. Also, consider moving those irreplaceable items of sentimental value that applicable insurance coverage can't replace, to a higher or alternative location.

Along with the warmer weather and longer days comes the threat of severe weather. Every year wind, hail, tornadoes, lightning and flooding cause millions of dollars in damage, injuries and fatalities.

Hazardous weather in Wisconsin in 2017 alone caused 10 fatalities, 29 injuries and resulted in nearly $124 million dollars in damages including $41.4 million in crop damage.

Preparing for the inevitable severe weather will ensure that you are safe and better able to overcome whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Part of that preparedness is being informed and being aware of changing conditions that may develop in severe weather.

With technology, we are better equipped to anticipate

APRIL | MAY 2019

incoming weather and the anticipated severity. While great tools are available, they should never replace common sense to expect the unexpected. One tool that I recommend is the phone app, 'Tornado – American Red Cross.'

This free phone app available for Android and iPhone platforms has saved me from driving right into an EF-1 tornado crossing the highway a few miles ahead of me.

The app allows you to input multiple locations to monitor for home, work, school, etc. It also can deliver alerts based on your GPS location. In addition to the severe weather monitoring, it is a great source of information.

Information in the app can be delivered in English or Spanish.

Also, it is important to note that every home and business should have a NOAA Weather Radio. This is an invaluable tool to being aware of what is going on with weather expected in your area.

I caution people that rely on the outdoor warning sirens. These sirens were never intended to warn people inside a building, and are a last resort warning to those outside. Even then, you may not hear the sirens based on the winds or your distance from the sirens.

There have been numerous cases where the severe weather has already impacted an area before these sirens were activated.

Don't bet your life on them.

Make sure you are ready for Mother Nature. Stay aware of the weather conditions and make sure you have a preparedness plan for home and work.

Chris Schlechta Safety and Loss Control Manager, Rural Mutual Insurance Company

wfbf.com

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RURAL MUTUAL

Rural Mutual Declares 5% Dividend for Farm Policyholders F or the third year in a row since Rural Mutual established the first-of-its-kind Farm Dividend Program, the Board of Directors declared a 5 percent dividend on eligible farm policies to be paid in 2019.

Estimated $2.6 million to be paid out in 2019 Based on the company's positive operating results, an estimated $2.6 million will be paid. Farmers started receiving dividend checks in late February.

"Wisconsin's farms are one of the state's most important assets and we are committed to helping protect them," said Peter Pelizza, Executive Vice President and CEO of Rural Mutual Insurance. "We're pleased that our financial success enables us to give back to our farm policyholders."

The Farm Dividend program is one of the many ways Rural Mutual Insurance serves its farmers and reinforces its

relationship with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau. Together we keep Wisconsin strong.

For more information on Rural Mutual Insurance's Farm Dividend program, please contact your local Rural Mutual Insurance agent.

Wisconsin's #1 Farm Insurer Rural Mutual is the #1 writer of farm insurance in Wisconsin for a good reason: founded by farmers, for farmers, we understand your unique needs, whatever size your farm. Even better, our knowledge is specific to Wisconsin, which is the only market we serve.

We know your farm is more than your business, it's your way of life. We offer a broad range of coverage options to prevent putting that way of life at risk.

Our farm coverage options include your home and personal items, farm buildings, vehicles, farm personal property and workers' compensation for your farm employees. And we offer a range of non-farm coverage. Our multi-policy discount makes insuring your risks with Rural Mutual the right choice.

For more information or to find an agent in your community, visit RuralMutual.com.

Time to Insure Your Crops Against Hail W

isconsin has experienced unusual and extreme weather in the past few years, including some severe hail and wind storms.

Last year alone, wind and hail caused significant damage to many fields around the state. In the last five years, Rural Mutual Insurance has paid more than $6 M in crop hail claims.

If you have never considered crop hail as a risk management tool for your farm, 2019 might be the year to start.

With high inputs and even tighter margins, an inexpensive crop hail policy is one way to protect your crop. Crop hail is available for many crops, not just corn, soybeans or wheat.

Its available for crops ranging from forage to row crops, fruit or vegetables.

A crop hail policy also covers more than just hail. Fire, lightening, vandalism, transportation from the field to first point of storage, debris removal and clean-up of buildings blown into a field by wind also may be covered.

Field corn has additional coverage available for green snap, wind, extra harvest expense and replanting if damage is due to hail.

If you contract or feed your crop, a loss from hail or wind damage could mean having to pay even more in the fall when a

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contract is due or to buy quality feed to replace what was damaged.

Rural Mutual offers many different types of policies, with and without deductibles so you can customize coverage to suit your operation and budget. There are several discounts available including new business discounts, early pay and loyalty discounts.

Crop hail insurance covers crops on a per acre basis, so even if only a portion of a field is damaged by a hail storm, you still have coverage. Losses are determined on a yield loss basis so even if a plant is not destroyed by hail, if its ability to yield a crop is compromised, a loss will be paid based on the severity of the damage and how many acres were damaged.

Crop hail insurance can be used as a stand-alone policy or used along with a multi-peril crop insurance policy.

Some farmers are in business today simply because they decided to purchase a crop hail policy. Rural Mutual Insurance has been providing farmers with a variety of risk management tools to insure their operations for more than 70 years. Contact a Rural Mutual Insurance agent to help you protect your crop this year.

For more information or to purchase 2019 crop hail insurance, contact your local Rural Mutual Insurance agent.

Premiums paid here stay here to keep Wisconsin strong.

WISCONSIN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION